Abroad101: Study Abroad Reviews

Going to France was a dream fulfilled and was greater than I ever imagined! Past Review

By (Stephen F. Austin State University) - abroad from 05/16/2016 to 06/01/2016 with

Stephen F. Austin State University (SFA): The French Mystique - The Architecture, Gardens, and Culinary Delights of France

What did you gain/learn from your experience abroad? Was it worthwhile?
I learned about the french customs and culture. I learned about their history and their history with the United States. It was absolutely worth while.

Personal Information

How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? None

Review Your Program

* Overall educational experience

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The Stephen F. Austin State University French Mystique study abroad experience was a trip of a lifetime!

* Host Country Program Administration

On-site administration of your program

* Housing:

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

It took me a little while to get use to the shower in the bathroom of our hotel. Other than that, I really had no complaints. The weather was so nice when we arrived, so my roommate and I left our balcony door and windows open while we slept. It was heavenly! I also enjoyed the breakfast the hotel provided us with every morning. It wasn't too light nor too heavy and gave us the energy we needed for the rest of the day. The hotel staff was excellent!

* Food:

The food was amazing. I was inspired to try dishes I never tried before. I was also excited about getting to try authentic french dishes that I always wanted to try.

* Social & Cultural Integration:

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Most of the French knew a least a little bit of English and that was very helpful. The encounters and experiences I had with the French were pleasant.

* Health Care:

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Fortunately, I did not need healthcare while I was in France. However, I do know that some people visited pharmacies and I was told that the people that worked there were very helpful.

* Safety:

Thankfully we were able to have a safe and pleasant experience in France. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and only took us to areas where she felt we would be safe. The lectures and guest speakers we had on safety prior to leaving for France were very helpful and very much appreciated.

If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? Yes

This program was well planned. We had the opportunity to experience a lot of things. Not only did we experience the city but also the country. We had a broad range of experiences which included french culinary and cuisine, french gardens, museums, palaces and much more.

Finances

* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

Not including program expenses, about how much money did you spend on food and other expenses each week? I think I spent about $300-$350 a week on food alone. Other expenses went toward additional activities and souvenirs.

Language

* Did your program have a foreign language component? Yes
How much did the program encourage you to use the language?

0 = No encouragement, 5 = frequent encouragement to use the language

We had a lecture on basic French words. Also while taking long bus rides from Paris to Normandy etc., our tour guide went over a few words with us. We were always encourages to say words like, hello, thank you, goodbye etc. in French.

How would you rate your language skills at the beginning of the program? Beginner
How would you rate your language skills at the end of the program? Beginner
What was the highest level language course you had completed prior to departure? N/A I had no courses in French. Only during lecture did I learn a few words. Prior to the study abroad course, I only knew Yes, Hello, and maybe a couple more words in French
How many hours per day did you use the language?
Do you have any tips/advice on the best ways to practice the language for future study abroad participants? Download an App of your choice to help learn different languages. Also there are several Apps that allow you to type in a word that you are trying to say in a different language. Google Translate is a good one. Ive also heard good things about Rosetta Stone, although it is a much more expensive option.

Other Program Information

* Where did you live?

Select all that apply

  • Hotel
  • Hostel
* Who did you live with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
* Who did you take classes with?

Select all that apply

  • Americans
About how many local friends did you make that you will likely keep in touch with? 0

A Look Back

* What did you like most about the program?
  • I like that we had guided and knowledgeable experiences without worrying about transportation.
  • I like that we had various experiences, like the culinary class.
  • I absolutely loved the opportunity to visit the Louvre and see famous art as well as other popular tourist attractions.
* What could be improved?
  • More information about cash exchange
  • I can't think of anything else at this time.
  • N/A
* What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? I wish I knew a little more about the cash exchange rates between American and European currency. Maybe the program could give more information about that a few months prior to going on the trip.

Reasons For Studying Abroad

To help future students find programs attended by like-minded individuals, please choose the profile that most closely represents you.
The Academic or Linguist
You went abroad with specific academic goals in mind; the program credentials and rigor of your coursework abroad were very important to you. You had a great time abroad, but never lost sight of your studies and (if applicable) were diligent with your foreign language study. Good for you!